Q: Which team is usually ranked #1 in rugby?

Over the years, New Zealand and South Africa have mostly held the top spot. These rugby giants often dominate the rankings thanks to their strong performances in international competitions. However, the top spot is never guaranteed — rankings change every week based on results.

Q: When were the World Rugby Rankings introduced?

The official World Rugby Rankings were launched in 2003. Before that, there was no global points-based system to compare international rugby teams. Since then, the rankings have become the standard measure of team performance worldwide.

Q: Do Rugby Sevens results affect the World Rugby Rankings?

No. The official World Rugby Rankings only apply to international 15-a-side rugby union. Rugby Sevens has its own separate ranking system and tournament circuit. This keeps the two formats independent and fair.

Question 1

How often are rugby world rankings updated?

Accepted Answer

The rankings are updated daily. Most updates are published on Mondays after all international test matches are played.

This means fans can quickly see how wins and losses affect their team’s position in the global rankings.

Question 2

Which team is usually ranked #1 in rugby?

Accepted Answer

Over the years,New ZealandandSouth Africahave mostly held the top spot. These rugby giants often dominate the rankings thanks to their strong performances in international competitions. However, the top spot is never guaranteed — rankings change every week based on results.

Question 3

How are rugby ranking points calculated?

Accepted Answer

Ranking points are based on match results, the relative strength of the opponent, and whether the game is played at home or away. Wins against higher-ranked opponents award more points.

For example, beating a top-five nation away from home can significantly boost a team’s ranking position.

The full explanation can be found here.

Question 4

Do Rugby World Cup matches affect the rankings?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Rugby World Cup matches are official test matches, so they count towards the rankings just like any other international game.

Because the Rugby World Cup involves the best teams, results often cause major ranking shifts.

Question 5

When were the World Rugby Rankings introduced?

Accepted Answer

The officialWorld Rugby Rankingswere launched in 2003. Before that, there was no global points-based system to compare international rugby teams. Since then, the rankings have become the standard measure of team performance worldwide.

Question 6

Do friendly matches count towards the rugby rankings?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Any officially recognized international test match contributes to the rankings, even if it is labeled as a “friendly.”

Every game matters because points can be gained or lost depending on the result.

Question 7

Why do home and away matches affect the rankings differently?

Accepted Answer

Teams are expected to perform better at home. That’s why beating a strong opponent away from home earns extra points compared to a home victory.

This system helps make the rankings fairer and more accurate.

Question 8

Can a team lose ranking points even if they win?

Accepted Answer

Yes. If a higher-ranked team narrowly defeats a much lower-ranked side at home, they may lose points. This happens because the result was expected to be much stronger.

This ensures that rankings reward consistent, competitive performances.

Question 9

Do Rugby Sevens results affect the World Rugby Rankings?

Accepted Answer

No. The officialWorld Rugby Rankingsonly apply to international 15-a-side rugby union. Rugby Sevens has its own separate ranking system and tournament circuit. This keeps the two formats independent and fair.